Cabinet approves bus fare revision following fuel price hike

Colombo, July 1 (Daily Mirror) - The Cabinet has approved a proposal submitted by the Transport, Highways and Urban Development Minister to revise bus fares in line with recent fuel price changes that came into effect on June 30, 2026.

Accordingly, the National Transport Commission (NTC), which is mandated under the current fare policy to announce annual bus fare revisions on July 1 each year, has appointed a committee to review and update the existing fare formula and structure.

The committee has been tasked with submitting recommendations for revising the bus fare index, taking into account multiple factors, including frequent fluctuations in fuel prices, rising operating costs linked to the ongoing war situation in the Middle East since February 2026, and changes in bus models currently in operation.

It will also consider the impact of fluctuations in the US dollar on the cost of bus spare parts, operational differences involving expressway services and buses operating under the recently introduced “Patla Paha Lanka Metro Transit Private Limited,” as well as the need to ensure continuous public transport services and the safety and sustainability of the bus industry.

The proposed revision is expected to reflect the updated cost structure of the sector while maintaining essential public transport services.